Conjunctions are connecting words. We use them to connect two words, two phrases or two clauses together. Conjunctions not only join clauses together but also show how their meanings are related. There are mainly two types of conjunctions – coordinating conjunctions and subordinating conjunctions. Test your knowledge of conjunctions with this grammar worksheet.

Underline the conjunctions in the following sentences and state whether they are coordinating or subordinating.

1. You will succeed if you work hard.

2. I don’t know whether she will come.

3. Though she is poor, she is honest.

4. He must be asleep for there is no light in his room.

5. Because I liked him I tried to help him.

6. I will call you when I arrive.

7. I waited for hours but she didn’t come.

8. James is taller than Harry.

9. Give me something to eat, else I will die of hunger.

10. We can travel by land or water.

11. Either you are mistaken or I am.

12. The train had left before we reached the station.

13. I will go to Mexico after I have finished my work here.

14. She was so weak that she could not walk.

15. Unless you give me the money I will shoot you.

Answers

1. if – subordinating

2. whether – subordinating

3. though – subordinating

4. for – coordinating

5. because – subordinating

6. when – subordinating

7. but – coordinating

8. than – subordinating

9. else – coordinating

10. or – coordinating

11. either…or – coordinating

12. before – subordinating

13. after – subordinating

14. so…that – subordinating

15. unless – subordinating